So, what has BMW given these cars? Is it the same CVT auto as the 1st gen? or does the new MCS see the DSG type box BMW has?

My dad is interested in the new Clubman, but wont buy a manual, i said steer clear of the autos, nothing but trouble...am i right?

 

I think tha you're working on bad information.

The 07+ MCS has an Aisin 6 speed auto with paddle shifters. Its a very reliable automatic transmission from everything I have heard.

I think that every MCS has had a proper auto transmission. I think that the CVT was limited to the early Gen 1 MC. I don't know the details on this since I'm not a gen 1 encyclopedia.

 

the CVT (Crappy Vehicle Transmission) auto was only offered on the first gen MCs, and there were major problems with it. the 2nd gen cars have the Aisin 6 speed auto with the paddles. And a very TALL 6th gear, to cut back on revs and improve gas mileage. I love it, and it's going on my 2009. Never EVER again will I buy a BMW product with the manual transmission, way too many problems and issues with the clutch and dual mass flywheel on my now-gone (thankfully) R53.

 

The auto on the Gen 2 MCS AND MC is the same as was on the Gen 1 MCS auto. Aisin 6 speed. It's a very capable automatic, and quite reliable.

The CVTs had some issues, but they were limited to the Gen 1 MC. No MINI currently offers DSG.

http://www.m7tuning.com/parts/produc...roducts_id=123

This is as close as you can currently get if you're not going for the slushbox

 

BMW's DCT (double clutch transmission) is only available on the new M3, and it's a $2500 option. You're not going to see that on any of the MINIs anytime soon, if ever. BMW never even offered the SMG II from the E46 M3 on anything else, but I have heard the DCT will be an option on the 335i and other BMW models at some point.

 

Works like a charm and the auto has been great in NYC traffic.

 

Same here, I traded a manual S for an automatic and I have to say it's the best thing I could have done! The auto is anything but a slush-box, it gives the auto Mini a whole life of it's own. Drive one and see for yourself...

 

+1. Up until a month ago I was a die-hard sticker. but nagging problems with the clutches and flywheels in my long-gone R53 (and left knee issues) made me decide to go auto for my new R56. It is unlike any other ive driven, totally impressed with the smoothness and lack of torque converter feeling in the higher gears. 4-5-6-5-4: the paddles rock! No regrets.

 

As close to perfect gear spacing as possible with the 6 speeds. Really keeps the engine in its power band. I would buy it again without a second thought. Great trans!

 

but we will always be considered "lesser" by the so-called manual purists because we chose an auto over a stick... I, for one, could care less.

 

I love my 07+ MCS with the auto. It is the best combination of an engine and transmission that I have ever owned. You can drive it fast as an automatic, using manual shifting, or you can let it do its thing which it does flawlessly, and also go fast. Or you can drive it easy for maximum gas mileage and it again does a great job. I have never had a car that was so much fun and so economical at the same time, and it is largely because of the engine and transmission combo, (plus of course the handling).